ABOUT

Adithyapuram Surya Temple is a Hindu temple located in Iravimangalam near Kaduthuruthy in Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala. It is noted mainly as the only 'Adithya' (Hindu solar deity) shrine in the state. . The idol of the sun god is made of particular type of stone that absorbs oil. It faces the west and said to be in the meditative form. The main ritual performed here is the Abhishekam (bathing of the idol) by oil, followed by water Legend has it that the idol of Surya Deva was consecrated during the 'Tretayuga'. But there are no much factual evidences behind the origin of the temple. Once a Nambudiri who belonged to the 'Kapikkadu Marangattu Mana' performed a deep meditation or 'Tapas' to please the Sun God 'Adithya'. Pleased by the devotion, Adithya appeared before him and instructed him to consecrate an idol in the place. From that time onwards, regular pujas and rituals were started. At present, descendants of that Nambudiri holds the tantric rights of the temple. The 'Sreekovil' or the sanctum sanctorum of the temple is in a circular shape. The idol faces west with a meditative posture. It is made of a special kind of stone that has the capability to absorbe oil. 'Abhishekam' or the holy bathing of idol is performed in morning followed by the abhishekam of water. It is really a wonder that there will be no presence of oil after sprinkling water in the idol. The upper right hand holds the 'Chakra' (rotating disk) and the upper left hand holds the 'Shankha' (conch) and the lower right and left hands are in a 'tapo mudra' posture. An interesting fact is that there are no 'Navagraha' pratishtas here.